1 Peter 5:1-5

¹ “Therefore, I urge elders among you, as your fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and one who is also a fellow partaker of the glory that is to be revealed: ² shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not with greed but with eagerness; ³ nor yet as domineering over those assigned to your care, but by proving to be examples to the flock. ⁴ And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. ⁵ You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God is opposed to the proud, but He gives grace to the humble.”

Verse 1: Peter addresses the elders among the believers, appealing to them as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings. All believers, regardless of their roles or positions, share in the sufferings and the glory of Christ. We are united with him and participate in His victory. Peter’s words serve as an encouragement to the elders, reminding them of their future glory and the privilege of serving in leadership.

Verse 2: Peter instructs the elders to shepherd God’s flock that is under their care. However, it is important to note that this shepherding is not a burden or an obligation. We are to be motivated by the love and grace of God, not by a sense of duty or legalistic requirements. The elders are encouraged to serve willingly and eagerly, without pursuing dishonest gain. Their motivation should be rooted in their desire to serve and reflect the character of Christ.

Verse 3: Peter emphasizes that the elders should not exercise their authority in a domineering or controlling manner. Leadership is characterized by humility and servanthood. The elders are called to be examples to the flock, demonstrating the love, grace, and humility of Christ. They are to lead by example, guiding and nurturing the believers under their care.

Verse 4: Peter assures the elders that their faithful service will be rewarded when the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ, appears.  Our salvation and rewards are not based on our own works or efforts, but on the finished work of Christ. The crown of glory represents the eternal and unfading reward that awaits those who faithfully serve and shepherd God’s people.

Verse 5: Peter extends his exhortation to the younger believers, encouraging them to submit themselves to their elders. This submission is not about blind obedience, but about recognizing and honoring the wisdom and experience of those who have gone before. We are called to clothe ourselves with humility, but it is important to understand that this humility is not self-deprecating or diminishing. To the contrary, it’s an embracing of who we are at the core. We are built to love one another.